A role model is someone you look up to and often try to imitate in words, actions, behaviors, etc. However, nowhere in the typical definitions does it explicitly say we can’t be our own role models. Why not try to set a good example for yourself?

Set goals. It doesn’t matter if you’re trying to shave a minute off of a mile run, going a day without biting your nails, or raising $7,500 for the Children’s Miracle Network; setting goals makes achievement possible and attainable. It doesn’t always have to be something big, but it should be something you feel strongly about.

Roll with the punches. There will be setbacks, disappointments, and moments of unimaginable joy: that’s what life is. Don’t let minor setbacks get you off track or victories get to your head; the highs and lows of life make it all the more important to stay hopeful during difficult times and stay humble when everything falls into place.

Acknowledge your feelings. Setbacks are frustrating, and unfortunately, unavoidable. Instead of pretending that everything is fine, give yourself some time to mope; cry on the couch and eat your way through a quart of ice cream! Have a journal dedicated exclusively to ranting. Allow yourself to realize that your feelings are valid before pulling yourself out of that frustrating rut. Give yourself time to cope in whatever way is best suited to your own personality and then return to your cause with renewed vigor and determination. Simply faking happiness will create a sense of cognitive dissonance and lead to a burnout: believe me, I’ve been there.

Treat yo’self. Just as there are days when nothing goes right, there are also days where everything falls into place. That factor alone warrants a celebration. You may still be a long way from your goal, but those simple joys and small victories deserve recognition. Take the time to do your nails, go out to eat, or go skydiving. Whatever floats your boat and gets you pumped for the next challenge is worth the extra time.

Treat other people the way you want to be treated. This mantra has been ingrained in my mind ever since childhood, but there are still days that it’s difficult to follow. However, I have found that kindness is almost always returned; maybe not when you want it, but it will be there when you most need it. For example, I have about a 15-minute walk from my place of residence to my school's campus. Along that walk, I usually come across five or more people. One day, when I was in an especially good mood, I decided to make eye contact with every individual and smile. Despite my good intentions, everyone avoided looking at me, and I didn’t even have the opportunity to spread my joy. I tried the same thing for three more days, only crossing paths with four people who would even make eye contact with me. On the fourth day, I was frustrated and ready to give up, when I met an individual who not only made eye contact, but also smiled back and asked me how I was. It might not seem like much, but that moment of affirmation was exactly what I needed to continue my attempt at being a “good person.”

Being your own role model is no small task, but neither is being a role model for someone else. You will still make mistakes and maybe even disappoint yourself. Although these instances may knock you down, remember that we are all human, and get back up and try again.

Now ask yourself, “What can I do today that will inspire me tomorrow?”